Is it safe to drive on the motorway with snow tires?
It is permitted to drive with snow or winter tires on all roads, including highways. It is even recommended as soon as temperatures drop below 7 degrees Celsius.
Snow chains and snow socks are prohibited on highways except in cases of heavy snowfall. However, be aware that these devices are not suitable for the high speeds encountered on highways. Only use them if the road is snow-covered and remember to adjust your driving accordingly.
Do not use the emergency lane to install your snow equipment.
What are the new regulations in France regarding "snow" equipment?
Since November 1, 2022, regulations concerning snow equipment have changed. Here's everything you need to know. To improve road conditions in mountainous regions, it is now mandatory to equip your car with snow tires (or to carry snow chains or snow socks) in certain areas of France.
Regions affected by this regulation
The municipalities of 48 departments are affected by this regulation; these are almost exclusively municipalities located in mountain ranges (Alps, Corsica, Massif Central, Jura Mountains, Pyrenees).
To find out which municipalities are subject to this regulation, consult the prefectural decrees.
What equipment is permitted?
Until 2024, all tires grouped under the term "winter tire" will be accepted (4-season "4S" or "All Weather" tires are not considered winter tires).
From November 1, 2024, only tires identified by the presence of both the "Alpine symbol" marking (39MSF) and one of the markings "MS", "M.S", or "M&S" will be accepted.
On highways, the use of snow chains or snow socks is only permitted in the event of very heavy snow cover on the road. The installation of this equipment can only be carried out in secure areas.
On the highway in winter, you should opt for:
- Winter tires
- All-season tires
When should you put on your snow tires?
The question of using snow tires divides drivers between those who see no point in them and are content to drive with all-season tires even in winter, and those who forget to remove their snow tires at the end of winter and end up driving with them on all year round.
However, while snow tires significantly improve your driving comfort and safety when temperatures drop below 7 degrees Celsius, they are not suitable for regular use when temperatures rise.
Not only do winter tires wear out quickly on dry pavement, but they are not as efficient as conventional tires! On dry pavement, the braking distance of snow tires is approximately 20% longer, and their use results in increased fuel consumption of about 0.3 liters per 100 km.
For all these reasons, remember to adapt your use of snow tires to the temperature!
Which snow tires should I choose?
Choosing the right snow tires can make all the difference. Here are the factors to consider to ensure you select effective snow tires that will last. The first step is to think about how you'll be using them: if you regularly drive in an area with low temperatures, heavy snow, or ice, you should prioritize winter tires with excellent grip!
Indeed, the three key elements to look for in your snow tires are: low rolling resistance (to avoid excessive fuel consumption), the number of grooves (for grip), and the tire's construction (for driving comfort).
High-end tires generally combine these three elements, but if your budget is more limited, choose based on your priorities.